Danny Boyle reveals Scots beaches in First World War tribute

SIX Scottish beaches have been chosen for a commemoration to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. The event, co-ordinated by Danny Boyle – the man behind the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony – is a UK-wide gesture of remembrance for those who lost their lives in the Great War.

The tribute to those who died in the Great War, by Danny Boyle (Image: -)

The beaches chosen to be part of the tribute, '14-18 Now, Pages of the Sea', are St Ninian's Isle on Shetland, West Sands in St Andrews, Scapa beach on Orkney, Ayr Beach, Burghead Bay beach on the Moray Firth, and Cula Bay beach on Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides. The public is being invited to gather at these locations to take part in the commemorations.

Each event will centre on the drawing of a large-scale portrait in the sand - similar to the one shown below - of a Great War casualty with a connection to the local area.

The portrait will be designed by artists Sand In Your Eye and will be washed away as the tide comes in.

Danny Boyle is preparing a tribute to the fallen of the Great War (Image: -)

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In addition, the public will be asked to join in by creating silhouettes of people in the sand, remembering the millions of lives lost or changed forever by the conflict.

People can explore an online gallery of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and choose someone to say a personal goodbye to on November 11 in person and on social media. They are also invited to add an image of their lost loved one to the online portal.

The Poet Laureate, Scot Carol Ann Duffy, will pen a poem, to be read by individuals, families and communities as they gather at beaches in the UK and Ireland.

The National Theatre of Scotland is organising the overall event, which will see locals in all six locations encouraged to take part in a workshop ahead of the main day.

Artistic director and chief executive Jackie Wylie said: "The First World War had a devastating impact on Scotland with tens of thousands of young lives lost and many more forever altered. Our nation has an enduring and emotive connection to the sea and our beautiful coastline has seen many come and go throughout history.

"Pages of the Sea will create an artistic tribute, both personal and communal, through art, words, pictures and stories, acknowledging all those who left our shores during the First World War.

"As a theatre without walls, the National Theatre of Scotland welcomes this poignant opportunity to help bring communities together in this fitting act of remembrance."

• The work of 14-18 NOW is made possible thanks to funding raised by National Lottery players

The work of 14-18 NOW is made possible thanks to funding raised by National Lottery players (Image: NC)